Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide array of housing choices but also for its multicultural population. Students have numerous options right at their feet. There are various alternatives in both student residences and private accommodations, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport options.
During my search for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most pivotal. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zones. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London can be attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and ages—something less common in private housing.
For me, being near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing close to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting varied neighborhoods. A number of international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling environment filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.